Algae and mining: A new frontier in sustainable site rehabilitation

Algae might seem an unlikely candidate to help transform Australia’s post-mining landscapes, but a new CSIRO -led project suggests these tiny aquatic organisms could provide sustainable futures for mine sites, surrounding ecosystems, and local communities. Looking down the microscope at the microalgae Nannochloropsis Australia’s mining sector is approaching a crossroads—where economic legacy and environmental responsibility must find common ground. A new CSIRO -led study, supported by the Cooperative Research Centre for Transformations in Mining Economies (CRC TiME), suggests that one of the most promising bridges between these imperatives may come from an unexpected source: algae. Though small in stature, algae are emerging as giants in their potential to transform post-mining landscapes. The study, developed in partnership with the University of Queensland and Murdoch University , proposes that algae-based technologies could reduce mining’s environmental footprint while seeding new...

Lotus acquires new Mongolian mining licence

Lotus Resources has announced its acquisition of a further fluorspar mining licence for $70,000. The licence has been transferred to Lotus Minerals Mongolia LLC, its wholly owned subsidiary company in Mongolia.

The Tsagaan Chuluut mining licence is located in Dornogobi Province, Mongolia and is approximately 400 km south-east of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital and largest city. The Tsagaan Chuuluut project area is located in a geological province that is known for its fluorspar mineralisation endowment.

The company has also increased its shareholding in its Lotus Bayalag Fluorite LLC,  a joint venture with Mr Onon, a local Mongolian businessman, from 65% to 80%. Lotus has agreed to acquire the 15% stake for a total consideration of $15,000. An exploration plan has been prepared for this project which will commence later this year.